Climate Adaptation
Our climate is changing. Summers are becoming hotter and drier, and there are more intense rainstorms. This can cause disruptions. These disruptions can be mitigated by adapting our living environment. We call this adaptation “climate adaptation.”
Example of Climate Adaptation
A simple example of climate adaptation is replacing hard surfaces, such as pavers, with greenery. If a garden has a lot of pavers, rainwater cannot easily seep into the ground. This can lead to flooding. Pavers also trap heat. Trees, shrubs, or plants ensure that rainwater can seep into the ground easily. Greenery also helps cool the area on hot, dry days through evaporation and shade.
Climate Adaptation Policy of the Municipality of Voorschoten
In 2023, the climate adaptation policy for the municipality of Voorschoten was adopted. This policy outlines the measures Voorschoten will take to mitigate the effects of climate change. The municipality incorporates climate adaptation measures as much as possible into redevelopment projects, new construction, or sewer system replacements. Examples include the construction of wadis (green ditches for temporary water storage), disconnecting stormwater collection from the sewer system, or installing permeable paving in areas such as parking lots.
You can find the climate adaptation policy at the bottom of this page.
Neighborhood Meetings
During a meeting, we’ll discuss together what’s needed to better protect the neighborhood from heat, drought, and flooding—in other words, how to make the neighborhood climate-resilient. Think of solutions to flooding caused by heavy rain. Or think of ways to make the neighborhood greener and cooler.
Neighborhood Plan
After a neighborhood meeting, we draw up a neighborhood plan. This plan outlines what needs to be done to make the neighborhood climate-resilient. We look at what we as a municipality can do, but also at measures that residents can take on their own. You can find the first neighborhood plans at the bottom of this page.
What can you do on your own?
Residents of Voorschoten can also take steps to help reduce heat and flooding. Residents are responsible for their own private property. There are several ways you, as a resident, can get involved. You can find more information on our Steenbreek page.
More information
- Would you like to learn more about how we’re working to make Voorschoten climate-resilient? Visit www.voorschotenvoorduurzaamheid.nl.
- Grant for Climate Adaptation Measures
- Please email any questions about climate adaptation to klimaatadaptatie@voorschoten.nl.